An easyJet flight from Málaga, Spain, to London Gatwick was delayed for nearly 12 hours after an 89-year-old British woman died onboard, prompting claims from passengers that she had already been dead when wheeled onto the aircraft. Witnesses alleged the woman was assisted by relatives who told airline staff she was “tired” and “unwell” as she boarded.
Passengers said the woman, seated toward the rear of the aircraft, appeared unresponsive and was lifted into her seat by family members. One passenger claimed a relative told ground staff: “It’s OK, we’re doctors.” The aircraft had begun taxiing when cabin crew reportedly became suspicious, leading the plane to return to the terminal before take-off.
EasyJet rejected allegations that the woman boarded while deceased, saying she had a fit-to-fly certificate and was alive when she entered the plane. Spanish Civil Guard officers later confirmed she was pronounced dead onboard. The airline said emergency services attended and added: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the customer.”